A Canadian Registration Number (CRN) is the jurisdictional registration assigned to pressure equipment such as pressure vessels, boilers, certain fittings, and piping systems under CSA B51 and applicable provincial regulations. Registration is handled by a regulatory body in each province/territory, and equipment must be registered where it is to be installed/operated.
This guide from MECS Engineering explains the process so you can stay compliant and avoid costly delays.
What is a CRN and who needs it?
A CRN is a unique identifier issued by the provincial/territorial authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) (e.g., ABSA in Alberta, TSSA in Ontario, BCSA in British Columbia). It confirms the design has been reviewed for compliance with CSA B51 and relevant ASME Codes (e.g., ASME Section VIII for vessels, ASME B31.1/31.3 for Piping). Without a valid CRN in the relevant jurisdiction(s), pressure equipment generally cannot be legally installed or operated.
Step 1: Speak with a Professional Engineer (early)
Engage a qualified Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) like the team at MECS Engineering early to confirm:
- Whether your equipment requires CRN (vessel vs. fitting vs. piping).
- Applicable codes and standards (ASME, CSA B51).
- If applying for national registration the best initial jurisdiction and expected timelines.
- Any special forms (e.g., statutory declarations) and stamping requirements.
Step 2: Prepare a complete submission package
Typical documentation includes:
- Design drawings (general arrangement, details, nameplate data)
- Engineering calculations (per applicable ASME/CSA)
- Material specifications and WPS/PQR as applicable
- Quality system evidence (e.g., ISO/QA certificates)
- Scope of registration (sizes, ratings, models) for generic designs
- Completed forms required by the authority (e.g., statutory declaration)
- P.Eng. stamp, where required
Our industrial engineering services ensure that every document is clear, accurate, and fully compliant with relevant codes.
Tip: Clear, consistent drawings and calcs reduce RFIs and shorten review time.
Step 3: Submit to the jurisdictional Authority
Submit to the regulatory body of the province/territory (e.g., Alberta – ABSA, Ontario -TSSA, BC – BCSA). The AHJ reviews for code compliance and may issue comments or RFIs.
If you plan to install across Canada, you can use reciprocal (national) registration after the initial CRN. Additional provinces/territories still need to process and issue their own registrations. There is a process in place where the initial regulatory body can submit to other provinces/territories on your behalf.
Step 4: Respond promptly to review comments
Authorities often request clarifications, additional calculations, or minor drawing updates. MECS coordinates responses quickly to keep your schedule on track.
Step 5: Receive your CRN and mark the equipment
Upon approval, you receive the Canadian Registration Number (CRN). Mark the equipment and maintain records for audits/inspections. If pursuing reciprocal registration, proceed with the remaining provinces/territories.
Timelines (typical, not guaranteed)
- Engineering review & initial submission (by MECS): ~2–3 weeks after PO, advance payment, and complete inputs.
- Initial jurisdiction approval: commonly 6–10 weeks, depending on AHJ workload and RFIs.
- Reciprocal registrations: often 12–16 additional weeks.
How MECS Engineering helps
- Code pathway & scope: Determine if you need CRN (vessel vs. fitting vs. piping).
- Complete package prep: Drawings, calculations, and forms aligned to ASME and CSA B51.
- Submission & liaison: We manage AHJ communications and track comments to closure.
- National registration: Strategy for efficient multi-jurisdiction coverage.
Note: Regulators make the final decision. MECS cannot guarantee approvals, but we minimize rework and delays.
FAQs
Do piping systems need CRN?
It depends on the province and specific scope. Piping may be registered differently (e.g., there are exemptions depending on the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). We will advise based on CSA B51 and local rules.
What if I have a generic design (multiple sizes/ratings)?
You’ll define a scope of registration (an envelope). Job-specific drawings/calcs must still fall within that envelope and match each other for stamping/verification.
Do I need a Canadian P.Eng. stamp?
Many authorities require P.Eng. review and stamping on drawings/calculations and statutory forms. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Can I install the vessel with only one province’s CRN?
You must register in each province/territory where the equipment will be installed/operated. Initial CRN facilitates reciprocity but does not automatically grant nationwide approval.
Talk to MECS
Need help scoping your CRN submission or planning national registration?
Contact MECS Engineering for a quick assessment and timeline.
